Customs regulations and required documents
Personal effects import regulations
Jordan
Customs regulations
Import licenses, valid for one year, are required for:
- non-commercial shipments exceeding JOD 2,000 ($2,820);
- biscuits of all types;
- mineral water;
- dried milk for industry use;
- used tires; and
- Items that require prior clearance from the respective authorities (for a complete list, see special import provisions).
Items that do not need an import license may require prior authorization by the appropriate government ministry. Any imported agricultural or food products may be inspected and tested for human consumption. Virtually all prepared and mixed foods are tested at the border. The Jordan Food and Drug Administration (JFDA) has the authority to inspect food products at the retail and wholesale distribution levels. A representative may enter at any place and collect samples for testing. If a product fails to meet technical requirements or is found unfit for human consumption, it is removed from distribution channels and destroyed.
The Jordan Standards and Meteorology Organization (JSMO) regulates food additives for JFDA. Permissible additives and their concentrations are those approved by the Codex Alimentarius Commission. The technical standards for foods contain specific lists for food additives and their permissible levels of use. These standards should be consulted to ensure that any additives are permitted.
Goods entering the country under temporary entry status, bonded goods and goods benefiting from the investment promotion law are exempt from import licenses. For more information, go to www.jic.gov.jo
All Jordanian and foreign trading companies must either obtain an importer’s card from the MOITS for customs clearance purposes or pay a Customs bond equivalent to five percent of the value of the imported goods. For non-trading entities such as banks, hospitals and hotels, the Ministry issues a special limited card that allows the import of goods specific to that entity’s purpose.
The U.S. government requires submission of a shipper’s export declaration, or SED, if the value of the shipment is greater than $ 2,500. Exporters can submit a hard copy or can use the free internet-based system to file.
For shipments to Jordan, exporters are required to provide a certificate of origin, a commercial invoice, an airway bill, and a packing list. A customs declaration is also required, but only an authorized forwarding agent in Jordan can process the declaration, which must be filed electronically. Regarding a U.S. Certificate of Origin for Exporting to Jordan, a general certificate of origin is acceptable and can be downloaded from the Trade Information Center’s Web site export.gov/tic
The commercial invoice and the certificate of origin must be certified by the National U.S.-Arab Chamber of Commerce, and then legalized by the Jordanian Embassy in Washington. To locate the National U.S.-Arab Chamber of Commerce, view their Web site at www.nusacc.org
A list of Jordanian diplomatic missions worldwide, Invoices do not have to be written in Arabic, but the importer is required to provide an Arabic translation. Typically, this requirement is met by having the importer hand-write the translation on the actual invoice. Exporters should be aware that commercial invoices for all shipments from the United States must bear a notarized affidavit. Jordanian Customs may request other documents related to the shipment as needed.
Jordan Customs launched the Customs Integrated Tariff System (CITS) in August 2005. Importers can use this system to track down commodity tariffs, import conditions and commodity trade agreements, regulations, and requirements of the commodity trade.
Local laws reflect the fact that Jordan is a predominantly Islamic country. You should respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions at all times and ensure your actions don’t offend.
For advice on travelling during the holy month of Ramadan see Travelling during Ramadan
The Jordanian government doesn’t interfere with the practice of Christianity but encouraging conversion to the Christian faith is illegal.
Jordan is a conservative society. You should dress modestly and behave courteously.
It’s illegal to drink alcohol on the street but permissible in bars, clubs, hotels and private homes. There are strict alcohol limits for drivers, similar to those of the UK. If you’re found guilty of drink driving you could face a driving ban, a fine or even imprisonment.
Possession, use or trafficking in illegal drugs is a serious offence and can result in a lengthy prison sentence and a heavy fine.
While Jordanian law may not explicitly prohibit homosexual acts, public displays of affection between homosexual couples are not generally tolerated. You could be arrested under other Jordanian laws. See our information and advice page for the LGBT community before you travel.
Used Household Goods and Personal Effects
Documents Required
- Copy of passport showing national identification (ID) / residence permit showing time abroad for a minimum of 12 months (returning citizens)
- Original bill of lading (OBL) / air waybill (AWB)
- Registration certificate (foreigners seeking exemption)
- Packing list
- Authorization letter
- Tax ID No. from the local Jordanian income tax department
Specific Information
- Owner of the goods must be present at the time of clearance at Amman Customs.
- For returning nationals:
- Documents other than the residence permit that may prove time abroad include:
- Original passport that carries the residency abroad
- Original passport that carries the entry stamp in to Jordan
- Family marriage book (married / families)
- Lease agreement / certificate of ownership certified by the Greater Amman Municipality
- Documents other than the residence permit that may prove time abroad include:
- For foreigners, if the name of the owner of the goods is on the office registration certificate at the Ministry of Trade and Commerce (usually the person is the acting manager with signature authority), then the goods are exempt from Customs duties.
- Again, the exemption applies if the household goods and personal effects are used and not new.
- If the owner of the goods’ name is not mentioned on the office registration certificate, but is an employee of a company, then a request from Customs, along with the shipping document and packing list requesting approval to exempt the shipment from Customs duties and taxes.
- Diplomats must be in Jordan prior to arrival of the shipment and must register with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs through their Embassy for approval to import household goods and motor vehicles duty free.
- A returning Jordanian is not exempted from Customs, Duties, & Taxes for shipments coming from the same country more than once, regardless of how many years have passed since he/she used his/her exemption privilege.
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Dutiable Items
- 200 cigarettes or
- 25 cigars or
- 200 grammes pipe tobacco
- 1 litre alcoholic beverages
- 2 bottles of perfume
- Legal personal goods up to JOD 50
- An unlimited amount of local currency can be imported into the country providing it is not converted into foreign money when leaving the country. No limit on the amount of foreign currency that can enter the country providing that it is declared upon arrival although Israeli currency is illegal.
- Local currency equal to JOD 300 can be exported out of the country. Sums of foreign money equal to the amount declared when entering can freely leave the country.
- All weapons and ammunition being imported into the country will require permission from the Ministry of the Interior/Public security directorate.
- Fresh meat and milk products will need a permit from the Ministry of Agriculture.
- Any fresh fruit and vegetables entering the country will need permission from Agricultural Marketing Corporation
- All dogs and cats being imported into the country will need to be accompanied by a veterinarian health and rabies inoculation certificate. Birds can only enter the country if granted permission to do so by the Jordanian Ministry of Agriculture.
Jordan Customs uses the Customs Integrated Tariff System (CITS), which importers may utilize to determine commodity tariffs, import conditions and commodity trade agreements, regulations and requirements of the commodity trade. For further information on customs procedures, please refer to the following website: customs.gov.jo. The FTA eliminates most duties and tariffs on commerce between the U.S. and Jordan. Additional taxes may apply to some products; a complete description of these commodities is also available at the Customs Department website. Detailed lists of the general and special sales tax can be viewed at the Jordan’s Income and Sales Tax Department’s website at: istd.gov.jo
The Government of Jordan imposed a special tax on 12 luxury commodities with a value ranging between 5-25 percent as of February, 2013. The government amended the tax system in 2013 and imposed a special tax on cell phone devices at 16 percent, clothing at 20 percent, musical instruments and parts and accessories thereof at five percent, works of art and antiques at 20 percent, cosmetics at 25 percent, perfume at 25 percent, ornamental fish at 20 percent, artificial flowers and accessories at 20 percent, leather clothes and furs at 25 percent, diamond importer and manufacturer and boat ornaments at five percent, natural or cultured pearls at 20 percent, gemstones and semiprecious at five percent and dog and cat food at 20 percent.
Prohibited Items
The government bans the import of plastic waste, the narcotic plant “qat” and diesel passenger cars. Exporters should always note that U.S. export licenses, though not required for many shipments, are required in certain situations involving national security, foreign policy, short-supply, nuclear non-proliferation, missile technology, chemical and biological weapons, regional stability, crime control, or terrorist concerns. For more information on export licenses, please refer to the article titled.
- Illegal drugs
- Knives, Weapons and ammunition – unless permission has been obtained
- Plant and plant products – unless permission has been obtained
- Fresh fruit and vegetables – unless permission has been obtained
- Meat and animal products – unless permission has been obtained
- Israeli currency
- Counterfeit money and goods
- Pornographic material
Miscellaneous (Pets, Motors, and others.)
Motor Vehicles
Documents Required
- Temporary entry permit
- OBL
- Vehicle registration / title
Specific Information
- Passenger vehicles operating on diesel are not allowed in Jordan.
- Vehicles older than 5 years are not allowed for permanent entry.
- Tinted windows are not allowed for permanent entry.
- Returning citizens or foreigners with valid license plates may obtain a temporary entry permit under the following conditions:
- The temporary entry permit is required for vehicle clearance and permits the shipper to drive using its origin country license plates and registration for 3 months; the permit is renewable for 3 additional months.
- The vehicle must be licensed in the country of origin and carrying metal plates.
- The registration with the department of motor vehicles must be valid for at least 6 months.
- After 6 months, the vehicle must be transported to the Zarqa Free Zone where the owner of the goods must pay duties and obtain Jordanian license plates, re-export the vehicle out of Jordan or sell it duty free.
- To obtain permanent entry, the following conditions must be met:
- Used vehicles into Jordan must be transported to the Zarqa Free Zone in order to be tested by the Bureau to determine eligibility to enter the country as per specifications of the Jordanian Bureau of Motor Vehicles and Licensing.
- Vehicles must pass a test; otherwise, recommended modifications / alterations must be made by the Bureau to meet required country specifications.
- The owner of the vehicle is responsible for all costs, including transport from the point of entry (POE) to the Zarqa Free Zone under a bank guarantee of the freight forwarding / clearing agent.
- Once the vehicle is tested and approved, the clearing agent will arrange to clear the vehicle from the Free Zone Customs for licensing before it is delivered to the owner of the vehicle.
- Vehicles of diplomatic organizations in the country are exempted from paying Customs duties and taxes; the exemption must be applied for through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Diplomats).
- Vehicles imported under temporary entry must be guaranteed by the office through posting a bank guarantee with the Directorate of Customs Department in the amount of the exact Customs duties and taxes.
- Once the vehicles are re-exported out of the country, an application must be made by the regional office accompanied with the finalized re-export Customs form to the Directorate to cancel and return the bank guarantee in order to close the official files under which the vehicle was entered into the country.
Pets
Documents Required
- Vaccination record
- Veterinary health certificate
Specific Information
- Permission is required for the import of birds by the Jordanian Ministry of Agriculture.
Pets:
Cats and dogs must be accompanied by a veterinarian health and rabies inoculation certificate. Pets may enter as passenger’s checked baggage, in the cabin or as cargo.
Prohibited: Import and transshipment of birds and their products unless approved by the Jordanian Ministry of Agriculture and holding health certificates. Import of falcons is completely prohibited, even if holding approval.
Baggage Clearance regulations:
Baggage is cleared at the airport of final destination in Jordan.
baggage of transit passengers with a destination outside Jordan.
Currency
Currency Import regulations:
- Local currency (Jordan Dinar-JOD): up to JOD 15,000.-.
- foreign currencies: unlimited (this includes letters of credit whether issued in JOD or in foreign currency, drawn on account of a non-resident) if declared on arrival.
- Prohibited: Israeli Sheqel.
Currency Export regulations:
- local currency: (Jordan Dinar-JOD): unlimited;
- foreign currencies: up to the amount imported and declared.
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No airport tax is levied on passengers upon embarkation at the airport.
The information on this page covers the most common types of travel and reflects the UK government’s understanding of the rules currently in place. Unless otherwise stated, this information is for travellers using a full ‘British Citizen’ passport.
The authorities in the country or territory you’re travelling to are responsible for setting and enforcing the rules for entry. If you’re unclear about any aspect of the entry requirements, or you need further reassurance, you’ll need to contact the embassy, high commission or consulate of the country or territory you’re travelling to.
You should also consider checking with your transport provider or travel company to make sure your passport and other travel documents meet their requirements.
Entry rules in response to coronavirus (COVID-19)
Entry to Jordan
The Jordanian government suspended all direct air passenger flights between the UK and Jordan from 21 December 2020. This suspension remains under review by the government.
Passengers who have been in the UK within the previous 14 days, including passengers who have passed through the UK in transit, are not permitted to enter Jordan during this period. You cannot transit from the UK through a third country to enter Jordan if you have been in the UK within the previous 14 days.
Passengers travelling by land and air must provide evidence of a negative PCR test within 72 hours of their scheduled time of departure to Jordan. You should not use the NHS testing service to get a test in order to facilitate your travel to another country. You should arrange to take a private test.
Passengers must also have PCR tests on arrival in Jordan.
The land crossing between Jordan, Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories are currently operating with limited capacity. Al Mudawwarah, and Al Omari (the border crossings with Saudi Arabia) were partially reopened on 29 October and remain open, however the number of travellers is limited to 300 each day.
Transiting Jordan
Passengers who have been in the UK within the previous 14 days, including passengers who have passed through the UK in transit, are not permitted to enter Jordan as from 21 December 2020.
There are currently limited flights operating to and from Jordan. All passengers arriving at Queen Alia Airport Jordan will need to follow instructions set out by government of Jordan.
International transfer passengers are allowed at Jordanian Airports and require:
- negative PCR test within 72 hours before arrival
- transfer time does not exceed 10 hours
Testing / screening on arrival
All passengers, including Jordanians, arriving in Jordan by special repatriation flights or via land borders will be PCR tested at their own cost. Each passenger must register and pay 28JD for a PCR test.
Testing requirements are subject to change with little or no notice.
Quarantine requirements
Passengers arriving in to Jordan are no longer subject to quarantine measures. A negative PCR test within 72 hours of their departure is required.
Data collection
The Government have announced that on arrival in Jordan you will need to provide your contact details, travel information and complete passenger health declaration and locator forms. Passengers will be asked to fill out these forms by their chosen airlines. Passengers arriving will need to install Aman.jo application on their mobile device. This will inform the user if they had contact with an infected person, so the user can seek appropriate medical attention.
Testing on departure
There is no testing requirement on departure, although the Government advises travellers to comply with coronavirus regulations in the destination country.
Regular entry requirements
Visas
You’ll need a visa to enter Jordan. You can buy a single entry visa valid for 1 month on arrival at the airports or the Sheikh Hussein/North Border crossing at the Jordan/Israel border.
Check with the Jordanian authorities if you’re planning to cross the Wadi Araba/south border crossing (Aqaba/Eilat) or the Allenby/King Hussein Bridge.
An exit tax, currently 10JD, is payable at all border crossings, except the airports.
If you wish to combine travel to Jordan with a visit to Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, it’s usually better to get a multiple entry visa before you travel from the Embassy of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan in London.
You can extend your visa after you arrive in Jordan up to a maximum period of 6 months. If you overstay your visa you will be fined. You can apply to extend your visa using the following website. Payment is accepted online.
If you’re entering for tourism you can get a combination of a visa and reduced cost entry to the major tourism sites by applying for a Jordan Pass online.
Passport validity
Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into Jordan.
Previous travel to Israel
Evidence of a previous visit to Israel like an Israeli entry/exit stamp in your passport does not normally cause any difficulties when entering Jordan. It is, however, for the Jordanian authorities to determine the right of entry into the country. If you have any concerns, you should contact the Consulate of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan in London.
Yellow fever certificate requirements
Check whether you need a yellow fever certificate by visiting the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website.
HIV test
You must undergo an HIV test if you intend to stay in Jordan for more than 30 days, either as a resident or as a long-term visitor. The fee to obtain the health certificate is currently 20 Jordanian Dinars.
Dual nationals
If you are a British/Jordanian national, you are allowed to use your British passport on arrival, but will need to show your Jordanian passport on departure.
UK Emergency Travel Documents
UK emergency travel documents are accepted for entry, transit and exit from Jordan. However, for entry and transit using an emergency travel document, you’ll need to get a visa from the Jordanian Embassy in the country where the document was issued. For exit using an emergency travel document, you’ll need to get a stamp from the Immigration & Residency department in Amman (not at the airport). A minimum of one month remaining validity is required on an emergency travel document.
Political situation
The political situation in Jordan is stable. However, protests do sometimes occur in Amman and other cities. The majority of such protests are peaceful but you should take sensible precautions, follow news reports and avoid all political gatherings and demonstrations.
In Amman, protests most often take place on Thursday evenings, near the Prime Ministry at 4th Circle, and on Fridays after midday prayers near the Husseini mosque in downtown Amman. You should take particular care if near these areas at these times. You should also take care when travelling outside Amman, especially at night, and be aware of the possibility of spontaneous demonstrations and road blockages occurring.
Local travel
Border areas
The FCDO advise against all but essential travel to within 3km of Jordan’s border with Syria. Whilst levels of military activity in southern Syria near the border with Jordan have decreased, the situation in Syria continues to evolve, and security threats in the form of instability or terrorist activity could arise with little or no notice.
The FCDO advise against all travel to Syria. For more information, see our Syria travel advice.
The FCDO also advises against all travel to Iraq, including the area bordering Jordan. For more information, see our Iraq Travel Advice.
You should take particular care at all border areas and if crossing into any neighbouring country.
Jordanian army and police units patrol the entire border area with both Syria and Iraq. They have been known to engage vehicles and people in the border area and will continue to monitor traffic.
Terrorist groups are present in Syria and Iraq, including those like Daesh (formerly referred to as ISIL) who routinely use kidnapping as a tactic.
Landmines may be located near military installations and borders. Minefields are usually fenced off and marked with a skull and crossbones sign, but fences and signs may be in a poor state of repair.
Petra
Petra is one of the world’s most treasured UNESCO Heritage Sites and it attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. It has strict opening and closing hours which all visitors should adhere to. Being inside Petra outside of these hours is not permitted and could lead to arrest and prosecution. Ticket prices are displayed and anyone needing clarification should ask the tourist office staff before agreeing any additional charges.
Crime
Crime levels are generally low: most crime is limited to pick pocketing, occasional bag snatching and theft from cars. Be vigilant and keep your money, passport and valuables secure.
Whilst large numbers of foreigners enjoy visiting Amman and hiking in some of Jordan’s more remote areas, women travellers often receive unwanted attention in the form of verbal and physical harassment by individuals or groups of men. On occasion this can escalate and in recent years there has been an increase in reports of cases of sexual assault. Female visitors and residents should take care when walking or travelling alone even during daylight hours. You should maintain at least the same level of personal security awareness as you would in the UK. See these tips for women travellers.
Jordanian police advise anyone who finds themselves stranded – even in daytime – to call the police on 911.
Tribal violence
Disputes between feuding tribes, clans or families may develop without notice and sometimes involve violence and the use of firearms. You should follow news reports and, if caught in an incident, leave the area and follow any police instructions given.
Road travel
Don’t accept lifts from strangers. If you have to use a taxi ask your hotel to recommend a reliable driver. Women shouldn’t ride in the front seat of a taxi, particularly when travelling alone.
You can drive in Jordan using an International Driving Permit. Make sure you have third party insurance. In Jordanian law a driver is always considered guilty if they hit a pedestrian. If you’re involved in such an incident, you could face imprisonment and be liable for the payment of hospital bills and other compensation.
In the rainy season (approx. November-March), the Government of Jordan sometimes issues flood alerts, particularly along the Jordan valley. These could impact on drivers and those hiking. You should be alert to potential advisories which can result in diversions and road closures. In the event of an alert affecting you, you should co-operate fully with the authorities.
According to the latest available World Health Organization data, Jordan ranks 48th in the world for the number of deaths per population as a result of road traffic accidents. There have been a number of fatalities recently on the Desert Highway. You should drive with care, especially at night, and avoid driving on unlit roads. Stray animals, broken-down vehicles and unmarked road works are common. If you have an accident, don’t leave the scene before the police have arrived and taken a statement. You can contact the police by calling 911.
The police carry out random security checks. Keep identification documents with you to present at these checkpoints. The police also strictly enforce the speed limit with fixed and hand-held speed traps. They issue on the spot fines of between 15 to 150 Jordanian Dinars.
Front seatbelts are required by law. Failure to wear one can result in a fine. All cars must carry a fire extinguisher and warning triangle. Using a mobile phone while driving is illegal.
Cars and coaches can become trapped by occasional heavy snow falls in winter and roads in mountain areas, including Petra and the surrounding area, can become blocked.
Roads may also occasionally be blocked by political protests and demonstrations. If you encounter such an incident, cooperate fully with the police and authorities.
Adventure travel
Many organisations offer trips across Jordan to take advantage of the outdoor activities on offer. The quality of these tour operators varies greatly. You should ensure you are well prepared for any outdoor activities in Jordan with appropriate clothing and sufficient food and water for what can be extreme temperatures.
There are around 80 wadis (valleys) in Jordan. During the rainy season (November to March) there’s a risk of flash floods in these valleys. Before travelling to a wadi check the weather forecast and don’t travel to places where heavy rain is expected for at least one day afterwards. If you’re caught in a flash flood go to a high point and don’t attempt to cross the water. If you’re in a vehicle try to drive to a dry spot. Contact the Civil Defence on 911 if the situation continues.
If you’re considering diving or snorkelling in Aqaba, be aware that safety standards of diving operators can vary considerably. Never dive or snorkel unaccompanied. Where possible make bookings through your tour representative and make sure the operator is accredited with an internationally recognised scheme such as PADI.
